Tennessee House Bill HB1017

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 3/29/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 40, relative to criminal offenses.

Impact

The implementation of HB1017 will improve how information related to human trafficking is disseminated to the public. By ensuring that the hotline is prominently featured on the TBI's website, the bill aims to facilitate easier access to vital resources for victims and concerned citizens. This action can potentially empower more individuals to seek help or report cases of trafficking, thus contributing to a more robust response against such criminal activities.

Summary

House Bill 1017 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated by incorporating provisions related to human trafficking. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) make information regarding the Tennessee Human Trafficking Resource Center hotline available on its website. This measure is a significant step towards enhancing public awareness and access to resources regarding human trafficking, a critical issue within the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB1017 appears to be positive, as it addresses a crucial public safety issue. The legislative discourse emphasizes the importance of providing resources to combat human trafficking and increase awareness among the populace. Stakeholders, including advocacy organizations against trafficking, are likely to view this bill as a meaningful contribution to the fight against this crime.

Contention

Despite the overall support for the bill, there may be discussions around the adequacy of the resources allocated for implementation and whether the information provided will be comprehensive enough to meet the needs of potential victims. Skeptics might argue that merely publicizing a hotline is not sufficient on its own to address the complex issues surrounding human trafficking, necessitating a more extensive framework to combat it effectively.